“Cheers” may have closed its doors in 1993, but the iconic bar’s patrons and staff have continued to make their mark in Hollywood and beyond. Let’s catch up with the beloved cast and see where life has taken them since they last called out “Norm!”
“Cheers” debuted on NBC on September 30, 1982, and quickly established itself as one of the most beloved sitcoms in television history. Created by James Burrows, Glen Charles, and Les Charles, the series was set in a cozy Boston bar “where everybody knows your name.” The show centered on the bar’s colorful staff and patrons, led by former baseball player-turned-bartender Sam Malone, played by Ted Danson. The dynamic between Sam and the highbrow waitress Diane Chambers, portrayed by Shelley Long, became a hallmark of the early seasons. Over time, the ensemble cast grew to include unforgettable characters like the know-it-all mailman Cliff Clavin, the bar’s sharp-tongued waitress Carla Tortelli, and the perpetually present barfly Norm Peterson.
Despite lackluster ratings during its first season, “Cheers” became a cultural phenomenon, running for 11 seasons and earning a whopping 28 Primetime Emmy Awards.
The show seamlessly blended humor and heart, tackling themes of friendship, ambition, and love within the confines of a single, timeless set. Following Shelley Long’s departure in 1987, Kirstie Alley joined the cast as the ambitious but neurotic Rebecca Howe, giving the series a fresh dynamic.
The show also introduced Kelsey Grammer’s Dr. Frasier Crane, whose popularity led to a successful spin-off. When “Cheers” aired its final episode on May 20, 1993, it drew an audience of nearly 80 million viewers, cementing its legacy as one of the most iconic and enduring sitcoms in American history.
Ted Danson (Sam Malone)
Ted Danson, the charming bartender Sam Malone, has enjoyed a prolific career post-“Cheers.” He starred in the CBS sitcom “Becker” from 1998 to 2004 and took on dramatic roles in series like “Damages” and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.” More recently, Danson delighted audiences as the afterlife architect Michael in “The Good Place” (2016–2020). In 2021, he headlined the NBC sitcom “Mr. Mayor,” portraying a businessman-turned-politician. Beyond acting, Danson is known for his environmental activism and has been married to actress Mary Steenburgen since 1995.
Shelley Long (Diane Chambers)
Shelley Long, who brought the intellectual yet endearing Diane Chambers to life, continued her acting career with roles in various TV shows and films. She appeared in guest spots on series like “Frasier” and had a recurring role as DeDe Pritchett on “Modern Family.” Long has also been involved in theater and made-for-TV movies, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry while keeping a relatively low public profile.
Kelsey Grammer (Dr. Frasier Crane)
Kelsey Grammer’s portrayal of Dr. Frasier Crane was so beloved that it led to the successful spin-off “Frasier,” which ran from 1993 to 2004. Grammer’s performance earned him multiple Emmy Awards. He has since appeared in various TV shows and films, including “Boss” and “The Expendables 3.” In 2024, Grammer reprised his iconic role in a “Frasier” revival, bringing the character back to screens for both old fans and new audiences.
Rhea Perlman (Carla Tortelli)
As the sharp-tongued waitress Carla Tortelli, Rhea Perlman became a fan favorite. Post-“Cheers,” she starred in TV shows like “Pearl” and “Kirstie,” and appeared in films including the 2023 blockbuster “Barbie.” Perlman has also made guest appearances on series such as “The Mindy Project.” She was married to actor Danny DeVito from 1982 until their separation in 2017, and they have remained close, co-parenting their three children.
George Wendt (Norm Peterson)
George Wendt, the lovable barfly Norm Peterson, continued his acting career with guest spots on various TV shows, including “The Simpsons,” “Family Guy,” and “Frasier.” He also appeared on stage, notably in productions like “Hairspray” on Broadway. Wendt remains a beloved figure in pop culture, often reprising his Norm persona for special appearances and commercials.
John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clavin)
John Ratzenberger, who played the know-it-all mailman Cliff Clavin, became a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to numerous Pixar films, including “Toy Story” (as Hamm the piggy bank) and “Cars” (as Mack the truck). His distinctive voice has made him a staple in animated features, endearing him to a new generation of fans.
Woody Harrelson (Woody Boyd)
Woody Harrelson joined “Cheers” as the naive bartender Woody Boyd and has since built an impressive film career. He earned Academy Award nominations for his roles in “The People vs. Larry Flynt,” “The Messenger,” and “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” Harrelson’s diverse filmography includes “Natural Born Killers,” “Zombieland,” and “The Hunger Games” series. He remains active in both film and environmental activism.
Kirstie Alley (Rebecca Howe)
Kirstie Alley, who portrayed bar manager Rebecca Howe, starred in the sitcom “Veronica’s Closet” from 1997 to 2000 and appeared in reality shows like “Kirstie Alley’s Big Life.” She also participated in “Dancing with the Stars.” Alley passed away in December 2022 at the age of 71.
Bebe Neuwirth (Lilith Sternin)
Bebe Neuwirth’s portrayal of Dr. Lilith Sternin, Frasier Crane’s wife, earned her two Emmy Awards. She continued to have a successful career in television, film, and theater, including a Tony Award-winning performance in “Chicago.” Neuwirth has also appeared in shows like “Madam Secretary” and remains active in the performing arts.
The legacy of “Cheers” endures, with its cast members continuing to contribute significantly to the entertainment industry, each bringing their unique talents to new projects and audiences.